"I get it in the neck throughout," Cowell told the BBC during the London launch of "I Can't Sing! The X Factor Musical." He added that "the big thing for me was if the songs were good or not."

The "X Factor" boss, who is also backing the musical, joined the cast and producers Monday to offer a taste of the production, including the tune "Please Simon," in which hopefuls grovel for the approval of Cowell, played by Olivier Award winner Nigel Harman.

The musical, created by comedian Harry Hill and composer Steve Brown, is based on the hit British talent-competition show and follows a wannabe pop star, with jabs at George Michael, Geri Halliwell and, of course, Cowell along the way. (An American version of the show on Fox has not seen the same level of success.)

Olivier Award winner Sean Foley, who helmed the "The Ladykillers," is directing the West End musical.

"I Can't Sing!" is set to open March 26, 2014, at the London Palladium, with previews set for Feb. 27.